VerbatimParliament, as it happens

Influenza: Vaccination

Asked by Esther McVeyConservativeDepartment of Health and Social CareTabled Answered 12 May 2025UIN 50103

The question

To ask the Secretary of State for Health and Social Care, with reference to UKHSA FOI Request Ref: 617 H5 Influenza Vaccine, whether one tender response was received; and what steps he has taken to encourage more responses.

Answered by Ashley Dalton

One tender response was received. The requirement for this vaccine specified that the product must be licensed for use in the United Kingdom. At the time the tender was published, only one supplier was able to meet this criterion. This was despite prior engagement with the market ahead of the release of the tender documentation.

The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) routinely undertakes proactive market and horizon scanning to identify emerging technologies and new suppliers across a range of industries. We remain committed to fostering a competitive environment that encourages innovation, while meeting the scope of the UKHSA to respond to public health outcomes.

Verbatim has judged this answer against the question that was actually asked — answered, partly answered, or evaded. Sign in to see the verdict →

Open this question in Verbatim →

Every written question, searchable

155,000 questions tabled since the election, with the answer each department gave — and the ones still unanswered, with the clock running. Free to search.

Search written questions →Read on Verbatim